The discussion of the residential property on Winding Way was a focal point, with the approval of variances for a proposed two-story addition. The board engaged with the applicant, who cited the need for increased living space due to the pandemic’s influence on home activities. The applicant presented a scaled-down version of the initial proposal, discussed the unique nature of the lot, and detailed the architectural elements designed to mitigate the visual impact of the addition. The board’s deliberation considered the aesthetics of the neighborhood and the functionality of the addition, ultimately approving the variance with the requirement of five affirmative votes.

Another topic was the property on Main Street, where the owner sought to convert an existing automotive office space into a dental office. The proposed change of use required variances for parking and zoning designation. The owner argued that the property’s history as a commercial space, the off-street parking availability, and the alignment with the master plan’s economic goals justified the variance. The board evaluated the impact on the surrounding residential area and the character of the neighborhood, considering the master plan’s recommendation to potentially rezone lots in the R8 Zone for office-commercial use. Dr. Nikita Gadia presented her plan for the dental practice, detailing the intended operation scale and future growth. The board approved the application with conditions.

An application for a property located at block 51, lot 25, involved a proposal to rotate the house to face White Oak Ridge and change the address back to its original. The plan included the removal of the current driveway on Alexander and the installation of a circular driveway on White Oak Ridge, along with widening the garage, adding a deck, and making alterations to the basement and first floor. The board discussed the visual impact of the proposed front-facing garage and driveway, considering alternative configurations and the addition of landscaping to minimize their presence. The architect emphasized the need for a circular driveway due to traffic safety concerns. The board examined the proposed changes in detail, focusing on the balance between functional needs and aesthetic considerations for the neighborhood.

A separate application for a pergola structure with operable louvers over an existing patio was discussed, with the applicant seeking to cover the patio for shade and enhance the outdoor living space. The pergola would deviate from setback and site coverage regulations, prompting a debate among board members about the visual impact and the necessity of the deviation from regulations. The application was ultimately approved, with the condition that the proposed plantings be installed to improve privacy and aesthetics.

Moreover, the board considered an application for a second-floor expansion of a house. The applicant described the need for the expansion to make the second floor functional for their growing family. The project involved variances for side yard setback and detailed alterations, including adding a second full bathroom and egress windows. The board and public supported the project, recognizing the narrow lot and the family’s need for additional space, and the application was approved.

Lastly, the meeting addressed an application for Alexander Lane, where the homeowner sought to improve the functionality of their home for their growing family. The architect detailed the proposed changes to the house, which the board voted to approve.